Pass federal legislation to end soring of horses

An end tocruelty.STAFF PHOTO BY THOMAS P. COSTELLO

Pass federal legislation to end soring of horses

Support of federal legislation from both sides of the aisle is difficult to come by, but one bill, the Prevent All Soring Tactics (PAST) Act (S. 1406/H.R. 1518) has met the bipartisan test.

This bill will strengthen existing federal law on soring, the despicable practice of inflicting pain on walking, racking and spotted saddle horses' legs and feet to produce an exaggerated gait known as the "Big Lick."

Congress enacted the Horse Protection Act in 1970 to end this cruel practice, but a faction within the Tennessee walking horse industry has used corruption and deceit to continue torturing horses to win blue ribbons. The PAST Act will end the failed industry self-policing system, ban the use of devices associated with soring, and strengthen penalties to more effectively crack down on this abuse.

I'm proud that both U.S. senators from New Jersey and Rep. Chris Smith have all cosponsored this common-sense, anti-crime bill. I urge them to do everything possible to make sure it passes this session: Their constituents and all horse-lovers are counting on them.

Donna V. Petro

Humane Society of the United States District Leader for Monmouth County

Ocean Township

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Pass federal legislation to end soring of horses

Support of federal legislation from both sides of the aisle is difficult to come by, but one bill, the Prevent All Soring Tactics (PAST) Act (S. 1406/H.R. 1518) has met the bipartisan test.

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